Visiting Penang, Malaysia: UNESCO Heritage Site and Food Haven

In 2008, Malacca and Georgetown (Penang) was added to UNESCO's World Heritage List. Penang Island itself has many well-preserved heritage buildings. These include the Khoo Kongsi and the Cheong Fatt Sze Mansion. In recent times, the Cheong Fatt Sze Mansion has been used as a filming site for films such as Singapore's "The Blue Mansion".

Ang Lee, a world-renowned director also chose Penang to represent the 1930s version of Hong Kong in his well-received movie, "Lust, Caution" starring famous Asian stars like Tony Leung. Other examples include "Anna and the King" starring Chow Yun Fat and Jodie Foster and Singapore's drama series, "The Little Nyonya".

Penang is well known as the foodies haven. Certain dishes such as laksa, nasi kandar, hokkien mee and char kway teow are its specialties.

Websites like http://www.penangfaces.chanlilian.net/eating-places/ and http://rasamalaysia.com/insider-guide-to-penang-hawker-food_12/ will provide you with some ideas of eating places to try.

Besides the food that you can taste in Penang, don't leave before you buy some tasty souvenirs for your family and friends.

Get goodies such as the following.

1. Tau Sar Peah (a type of pastry)

This can be purchased from shops such as Ghee Hiang http://www.ghee-hiang.com/home.html

2. Nutmeg (preserved fruit)

Malaysia is Truly Asia because it is a country with many different races and religions. Within the small state of Penang, you will have the chance to experience this unique feature of Malaysia.

Places to visit include:

1. Pinang Peranakan Mansion to find out more about the Babas and Nyonyas

2. St George's Church which features a memorial canopy dedicated to Captain Francis Light

3. Kapitan Keling Mosque which was named after the Indian Muslim merchant, Caudeer Mohudeen.

4. Kek Lok Si Temple which is the largest Buddhist temple in Southeast Asia.

After experiencing the different sides of Penang, if you have extra time, a spot of shopping is recommended. Shopping can be done at malls which include Queensbay and Gurney Plaza.

As Penang is also an island, you can also enjoy and laze on the beach or indulge in water sports.